Raycom Sports Names Hunter Nickell as CEO

Hunter Nickell has been named Chief Executive Officer for Raycom Sports. Nickell is a veteran leader in sports media, digital platforms, event sponsorship and content development. Nickell has been a guiding force throughout his career, including Sports South, FOX Sports, SPEED, IMG College and Mulberry Street Media Company, LLC.

“Hunter brings a wealth of experience to Raycom Sports.” said Paul McTear, President and CEO of Raycom Media. McTear continued, “We just couldn’t pass on the opportunity to have a leader with his experience take the helm of our very successful team at Raycom Sports. We look forward to his insights and leadership over the coming years.”

Pat LaPlatney, COO of Raycom Media added, “We have known Hunter for many years. Having worked with him during various partnerships via Raycom Sports. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise not only in sports media but digital platforms, content development and revenue streams.”

Nickell stated, “This is a wonderful opportunity to join an established leader in sports media with Raycom Sports. I look forward to being a part of the team that takes us into the future of sports broadcasting, sports on digital and content development.”

While at IMG College, Nickell and his team oversaw partnership management in multimedia, digital platforms, licensing, ticketing and seating that generated over $400 million in revenue. While President of SPEED the team grew revenue to $300 million and distribution to over 80 million homes. In addition to launching SPEED on Demand, SPEED.com and SPEED 2, a digital streamed video product. While at FOX Sports Net he and his team launched digital brand extensions, multi RSN agreement with the Southeastern Conference, and a national deal with FOX Sports Net, Raycom Sports and the Atlantic Coast Conference to launch ACC Sunday Night Hoops for men’s basketball.

Nickell attended Denison University in Granville, OH, was president of the student body, played hockey and lacrosse while graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications. He is a member of the National Motorsports Appeal Panel and the marketing council for USA Hockey. He and his wife Kim live in Davidson, NC.